2010 Funds Support Fertility Research

The grant will support the efforts of Drs. Mitalipov and Amato to generate comprehensive preclinical data to access the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of mitochondrial DNA replacement procedures in a human oocyte in vitro. Because the ultimate goal of this research is to find a way to genetically fix inherited diseases passed from a mother to child through DNA, this project is an excellent example of how basic science research at OHSU can translate to tangible improvements in patient health and disease prevention.

Dr. Mitalipov is an Associate Scientist in the Division of Reproductive Sciences, a Research Associate Professor at the Oregon Stem Cell Center and Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Molecular & Medical Genetics, and co-director of the ART/ESC core at the Center. The overall research goal of Dr. Mitalipov’s lab is to use molecular and cellular approaches to answer scientifically and clinically pertinent questions regarding gamete, embryo and stem cell biology. Dr. Amato is an Adjunct Associate Professor, in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She is a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist.

About the Circle of Giving

Established in 2006, the Center for Women’s Health Circle of Giving was created to support research that will lead to improvements in women’s health. The program is supported philanthropically by a group of women who are passionate about advancing women’s health research at OHSU.